What is our austerity, when there is Christ,
What is want, even hunger or deprivation,
What burden God's call to selfless sacrifice;
Where is the pinch throughout the Nation,
What does it matter, when there is Christ?

It matters, little, no, it matters none at all,
Our collective lessening of material wealth,
What, then, if all our earthly treasures fall,
When we have God, family, freedom, health;
So then answer we the Master's service call.

Do we not have wealth measured in eternity,
Treasures scales cannot balance in gold,
The blessings of peace, love, salvation, we,
Carry and are carried by, resolute and bold,
Knowing as with our God always we will be?

Father, we thank you for abundant blessings,
Many the world cannot see or understand,
As we humbly bow before you, confessing,
How we have failed to heed your commands;
Forgive us, healing by Christ's intercessing.

So then, what austerity, when we have Jesus,
Where is our want, hunger or deprivation,
In light of knowing the Lord God will lead us,
Knowing we rest securely in His salvation,
What hardships matter when there is Jesus?

Yours in Christ, Tom Woodard